From Islamabad to International Cities, Pakistanis Demand Justice, Democracy, and the Release of Imran Khan
Sydney (Tribune International Report, 25 Nov 2024): In an unprecedented show of unity and determination, millions of Pakistanis at home and abroad rallied under the banner of
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to protest against a government accused of corruption, election fraud, and autocratic practices. The global movement, sparked by the detention of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has been hailed as a historic moment in Pakistan’s political landscape.
On November 24, PTI supporters and the broader Pakistani diaspora staged synchronized demonstrations in over 20 major cities worldwide. Meanwhile, within Pakistan, a massive “Millions March” saw people from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Sindh, and Punjab converge on Islamabad, despite severe government-imposed restrictions aimed at suppressing the protest.
Resistance Against Repression in Pakistan
The unelected government, allegedly installed by Pakistan’s military and intelligence agency (ISI), resorted to extreme measures to hinder the peaceful protests. Highways and major roads were blocked with cargo containers, trenches were dug to obstruct movement, and internet services were suspended nationwide. Security forces, including police and intelligence personnel in plain clothes, conducted raids on the homes of PTI workers and political activists, detaining many on dubious charges.
State-controlled television and media outlets were accused of broadcasting misinformation in an attempt to demoralize protesters and discredit the movement. However, these tactics failed to deter the public. By Sunday morning, November 24, an unyielding tide of protesters began their march toward Islamabad, vowing to
remain in the capital until their demands were met. Reports indicate that the Red Zone, a high-security area in Islamabad, may soon be overwhelmed by the sheer number of demonstrators.
Global Solidarity: Protests in Major Cities
The global Pakistani diaspora played a pivotal role in amplifying the message of justice and democracy. Peaceful protests were organized in major Australian cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane, where families came together to demand Imran Khan’s release and the restoration of democratic values.
In the United Kingdom, a historic demonstration took place outside 10 Downing Street in London, where protesters urged the British government to hold Pakistan’s authorities accountable for violating democratic norms and human rights. Similar protests echoed across cities in the United States, including Houston, Sacramento, Washington DC, Los Angeles, San Diego, Manhattan, and Miami.
Canada saw widespread participation in Toronto, Surrey, Ottawa, and Calgary, while Europe witnessed gatherings in Brussels, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Paris, Athens, Stockholm, Vienna, Brescia, and Dublin. Protests were also reported in Auckland, New Zealand, and Johannesburg, South Africa, highlighting the global reach of PTI’s movement.
A Nation’s Hope for Change
As millions continue their march, many anticipate a tipping point in Pakistan’s political crisis. Sources suggest that the ruling elite, facing overwhelming pressure, have prepared emergency evacuation plans involving helicopters and military aircraft.
The unified voices of Pakistanis worldwide are a testament to their resilience and commitment to democratic principles. Whether the current government and its alleged backers in the military establishment will yield to public demands remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: this movement has already made history.
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